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The Jefferson Fellowship Program – Darden MBA’s $180,000 Award

Darden School of Business

Established in the 1990s, the Jefferson Fellowship Program shortlists outstanding candidates from around the world who exhibit strong leadership qualities. 

The Jefferson Scholars Foundation's measures look closely at instances of ethical leadership, diplomatic intervention and decisive action, a proven ability to translate ideas into action, and a stellar academic record. 

A key feature of the Darden Jefferson Fellowship is the establishment of a one-on-one relationship with a distinguished professor at Darden. Each fellow selects a faculty member as an advisor before starting the MBA program and collaborates closely on an independent research project.

Award Amount: $180,000 that cover 

  • Full tuition and fees
  • Health insurance coverage
  • $20,000 living stipend

Other Support within the $180,000 coverage: 

  • $7,000 stipend for MBA program expenses (e.g., laptop, research-related activities, global learning experience)

Number of Awards: Not specified

Eligibility/Criteria: To be eligible for the Jefferson Fellowship, candidates should:

  • Demonstrate exceptional qualities, including strong leadership and cross-functional communication skills
  • Have a track record of putting ideas into action
  • Exhibit superb academic achievement

Selection Procedure
1) The Jefferson Scholars Foundation invites candidates to apply for the fellowship in late summer

2) Darden School nominates candidates from Early Action and first round of MBA application

3) International students must apply by Darden's Early Action round

4) An Interview is also required to be chosen as finalists

5) For finalists, the Jefferson Fellows Competition include
a) Case discussion led by a Darden faculty member.
b) Two-day visit to the University of Virginia and the Darden School of Business.
c) Exploration of the Darden community, including class observation, campus tour, and meetings with faculty, administration, and current students.

d) Panel interview

Essay: NA

Resume: A One Page Resume is mandatory

Deadline: September 5th 

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